Indian skipper Rohit Sharma’s decision to bowl first in the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test at the Gabba has sparked widespread debate. Known for favoring teams that bat first, the Gabba in Brisbane is a venue where the toss often sets the tone for the game. Despite overcast conditions and a rain-affected day, former Australian opener Matthew Hayden strongly criticized Sharma’s call, describing it as a costly misstep.
Hayden Labels Toss Decision a Mistake
Speaking on Channel 7 in Australia, Hayden, who has extensive experience playing at the Gabba, expressed his disapproval. “This is a very good batting wicket. Batting here in the first three days is always such a pleasure,” he remarked. The former opener suggested that India had placed themselves on the back foot with Sharma’s choice to bowl first, even if weather conditions might have influenced the decision.
Hayden, a Queensland native who scored over 900 Test runs at the Gabba with an average exceeding 60, highlighted how well he knows the ground’s nuances. While acknowledging India’s success in chasing on their previous tour in 2021, he argued that conditions in Brisbane typically favor the team batting first.
Momentum Could Swing Australia’s Way
Predicting the course of the Test series, Hayden backed Australia to dominate the match and take a crucial lead. He also believed the outcome at the Gabba would set the tone for the rest of the series. “I’m backing Australia to win the series,” Hayden said. “This match could shift momentum firmly in their favor.”
He was particularly optimistic about Australia’s chances at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for the Boxing Day Test, expecting them to perform at their peak. If Australia were to win at Brisbane and Melbourne, Hayden suggested, the final Test in Sydney could become inconsequential.
Rain Adds Intrigue to the Gabba Test
The first day’s play at the Gabba was heavily impacted by rain, with only 13.2 overs bowled before the weather forced the players off the field. Australian opener Usman Khawaja looked solid at the crease during the brief period of play.
As the Test progresses, all eyes will be on how both teams respond to the conditions and whether Rohit Sharma’s decision at the toss proves decisive in the outcome of the match and the series.
